Film Series at the Moxie: Fall 2017

Few things capture the excitement of the imagination better than film. So many of the questions, concerns, and hopes that the Humanities collectively investigate are represented in that medium, so we sought out and established a partnership with the local independent film house – the Moxie. Working with the Moxie, we have chosen a blend of classic and contemporary films that highlight deep and enduring humanistic questions and themes. As a result of the partnership we produce a MoxieFilm Series, directed by Dr. Kevin Henderson, that anchors great film to community-centered “after-view” Socratic dialogues with the audience. This effort is also supported by a grant from The Missouri Humanities Council.

Films begin at 1:00, and tickets are half-price (only $5)!

The Moxie is located in downtown Springfield, at 305 S. Campbell Avenue. We look forward to seeing you at the series this year!

2001: A Space Odyssey (1968) – Oct. 28

Hosted by Dr. Chris Panza, professor of philosophy

Directed by Stanley Kubrick, “2001: A Space Odyssey”is an acclaimed masterpiece of science-fiction and cinematography. The film, which contains minimal dialogue and little physical action, relies instead on brilliant use of symbolism and imagery to ask difficult questions about the origins, limits, and destiny of the human race. “2001” is accompanied by a brilliant musical score and is considered by many to be the best science-fiction film of all time.

Les Visiteurs (1993) – Nov. 11

Hosted by Dr. Shelley Wolbrink, professor of history

This award-winning French film tells the story of a medieval nobleman and his squire who accidentally time travel forward into the future while attempting to break a curse. Light-hearted and even silly at times, The Visitors can be as much a joy for American audiences today as it was for French audiences when it was released.

Where Do We Go Now? (2011) – Nov. 18

Hosted by Prof. Mouhcine El-Hajjami, visiting professor of Arabic

Set in an isolated village in Lebanon marred by religious sectarianism, director Nadine Labaki’s film offers a new, critical perspective of gender dichotomy in the Arab world. The film follows Christian and Muslim women of the village who intervene to prevent a full-scale religious war. The women, sick of losing husbands and children because of interfaith confrontations, insist on coexisting under a banner of tolerance. A daring combination of comedy, drama, and fantasy, the film challenges definitions of faith, film, and culture alike.